Kevin M. Tighe

What to Do if Stopped at a Sobriety Checkpoint in New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 02:48:00 +0000

Sobriety Checkpoint FAQ's in NH

Sobriety checkpoints are completely legal in New Hampshire and if you haven’t experienced one yet, you will. It is important to know what to expect and how to navigate them. While you should never drive drunk, there are times when you might have had one or two drinks and are perfectly capable of driving home and find yourself stopped at a sobriety checkpoint. While the DUI laws in New Hampshire can be tricky, you could still be indicated as driving drunk even when you’ve had very little to drink. Here are some tips to help you through the checkpoint.

Be Respectful

While it might be inconvenient or annoying to be stopped at a sobriety checkpoint, the police are simply doing their job to make the state of New Hampshire safe for everyone. It is important to keep that in mind and be respectful no matter what. The officer interviewing you will be respectful as long as you are as well. If you answer the questions respectfully, are compliant, and have your information available the stop is likely to be quick and painless.

Be Prepared

If you are stopped at a sobriety point, you will be required to gather the necessary documentation that the officer will ask for during the stop. The officer will want to see your license and registration. While waiting behind the other cars in line, be sure to gather all of this information so you have it available when it is your turn to speak to the officer. The officer will appreciate your preparedness. Another tip is to roll down the window to let out any odors of alcohol prior to approaching the officer to let the air ventilate throughout the vehicle.

Be Compliant at all Times

Whether you have been drinking or not, it is important to be compliant with the officer at all times. Answer any questions the officer asks you and hand over your information willingly. The more compliant you are, the quicker the process will be and you are more likely to be sent on your way with no issues. To add to your compliance, you could turn on your vehicles’ interior light and keep your hands on the steering wheel to be sure they are seen at all times. Be as brief and polite as possible when answering the officer's questions. If you get chatty with the officer or provide more information than necessary, this could lead the officer to ask you more questions, thus indicating that you have had alcohol. Even admitting to having only a couple of drinks could mean facing a DWI charge. Keep your answer respectful and short, to the point in order to avoid any problems.

If you do find yourself in a situation facing a DUI charge due to a sobriety stop or otherwise, it is important to find a DUI lawyer in New Hampshire to help you navigate the way.

By Kevin Tighe

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Gun Concealed to Carry (CCW) Laws in New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 18:24:00 +0000

New Gun Concealed to Carry (CCW) & Background Check Laws in New Hampshire

Despite New Hampshire being a state that does not require a permit for open carry or concealed weapons, it has the highest number of background checks across the country for handguns (pistols and revolvers). In response to federal law prohibiting firearms to felons, fugitives and domestic abusers, the State of New Hampshire has enacted its own laws that prohibit the sale of firearms to felons.

Criminal Background Check System

National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is mandated to keep the public safe by maintaining a database of convicted criminals, sex offenders, domestic abusers amongst others who may be a danger to the public. The NICS also aims to use the database to ensure timely transfer of firearms to law-abiding citizens.
The NICS is administered by the FBI and gathers data from criminal records across states. The database keeps records of people with convictions that led to imprisonment terms exceeding one year, foreign fugitives, and immigration offenders including those with none immigrants visas. The information is gathered from the National Crime Information Center, Department of Homeland Security and the Interstate Identification Index.

Usually, the NICS works with state governments, but state governments are not required to work in liaison with NICS. New Hampshire is a “partial contact state”. This means that the New Hampshire’s Department of Safety has agreed to act as a point of contact for handgun transfers but not for the transfer of long guns. This means background checks for handguns are initiated through the Department of Safety and long gun background checks initiated directly through the FBI.

Background Checks and Mental Illness

States report to the NCIS people who have been “adjudicated as a mental defective”. New Hampshire is one of the few states that had not been reporting people with mental illness to the background check system. However, there are laws that allow for the release of confidential patient information where it has been established that there is a need to protect the individual or members of the public.

In 2016 New Hampshire legislature passed the Medicaid Expansion Bill which prohibits agencies, individuals or organization from passing mental patient’s information to NICS unless ordered to do so by a court in which the person in question was present with his or her attorney.

Other Views on the Medicaid Expansion Bill

However, some like the New Hampshire Attorney General has differed with the courts on the provisions of the Medicaid Expansion Bill. The Attorney General, Joseph Foster, sent a letter in July 2016 to the courts ordering them to begin sending the information of dangerously ill persons to the NICS. His interpretations of the law would mean that New Hampshire’s Department of Safety will start providing information on people who have been found unfit to stand trial, people not found guilty for reasons of insanity will have their information released to NICS.
Opponents of the interpretation believe that the interpretation should come from the courts rather than from a letter from the Attorney General. Also, sponsors and supporters of the bill have insisted that the amendments to the Medicaid Expansion Act were made specifically to prevent access to victim records without a court order.

By Kevin Tighe

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Latest Killer Drug (Carfentanil) in New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 25 May 2017 14:07:00 +0000

New Deadly Drug Carfentanil Affects New Hampshire

In April 2017, Governor Chris Sununu of New Hampshire announced what authorities had been feared for months. After laboratory testing, they confirmed that the new deadly drug Carfentanil was already in New Hampshire. Three deaths were reported in March 2017 marking its first appearance in New England.

The drug has been causing seizures and death across America and the world. Authorities are worried about its potency and they believe it can potentially be used as a chemical weapon. The drug first appeared in the Midwest before spreading to New England and other parts of the United States.

How Potent is Carfentanil?

Carfentanil is used as a general anesthetic for large animals. A few milligrams can bring down an elephant. It is 10,000 times more potent than morphine, 100 times more potent than fentanyl, and 4,000 times more potent than heroin. It is resistant to most medication used to treat drug overdoses. It is responsive to Naloxone, though multiple dosages are required.
Carfentanil is used to lace other drugs such as fentanyl and heroin. Abusers may be unaware that the substances have been laced with a potent and dangerous fentanyl derivative. According to Manchester Fire Chief Daniel Goonan, heroin addicts are scared of the presence of the drug in the streets.

Reports in New Hampshire

In 2016, after reports of seizures and deaths in Ohio, authorities in New England prepared for what appeared to be the inevitable. Law enforcement and response teams were on high alert for signs of the drug in the streets of New Hampshire.

It first appeared in New Hampshire in March 2017. Three deaths were reported, two 35 year old men, and one 48 year old man in Manchester. 26 overdoses were reported in Manchester in April resulting in 2 deaths. Police also arrested a man in possession of trace amounts of the drug.

The potency of the drug is not only a risk for addicts, but also for law enforcement and health workers. Grains of Carfentanil are enough to cause seizures when inhaled or when absorbed through the skin. Experts warn that caution should be taken when handling the substance, because even what appears to be trace amounts can be fatal.

The Safe Station Program

In Manchester New Hampshire, a new program to help addicts was started by Fire Chief Daniel Goonan. Anyone who needs help can simply walk into one of the fire stations in the city. Firefighters are trained to do an initial medical assessment for warning signs, they may call for help in case the addict needs medical assistance.

The safe station program has been quite successful in Manchester NH. In May alone, more than 100 people have sought help through this program. So far the safe station program has reported that more than 800 people have voluntarily sought help.

The good news is that the number of seizures and overdoses seems to have reduced. This is partly attributed to the Safe Station Program. Law enforcement has also increased surveillance and China recently banned the drug reducing quantities finding their way into the U.S. If you or someone you know has been arrested for drug possession and are facing criminal charges, you should speak with an experienced drug defense lawyer in NH.

By Kevin Tighe

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New Firearm Licensing Laws New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 19:44:00 +0000

Firearm Licensing Changes in the Works for New Hampshire

It takes a great deal of time and effort to see changes made to the law in an individual state, especially if the law covers something serious like gun ownership. The constitution of the United States includes the Right to Bear Arms within the Second Amendment, with each state having certain licensing requirements in place that must be followed in order to be a certified and responsible gun owner. The licensing requirements may soon change in the state of New Hampshire if Senate Bill 12 passes into law.

The new measure is sponsored by Senator Jeb Bradley of New Hampshire and would work to repeal the requirement for licensing that says individuals who carry a concealed revolver or pistol must have a license to do so.

The Existing Firearms Law in NH

The existing state law of New Hampshire in regards to firearms allows for any citizen of the state to legally own a firearm to carry the weapon openly. The gun can be unloaded or loaded. If the firearm is concealed, perhaps with a jacket or kept in a female’s pocketbook for protection, then the individual would be required to have a concealed carry license. With the proposed legislation, the need for this type of licensing would be eliminated.

The legislation would actually extend the permitless open carry law to a permitless concealed carry option. This means that law abiding citizens would have the right to conceal or open carry with one license in place. The new measure would also extend the time frame of licensing from four years to five.
Similar legislation was proposed in 2016 but shot down by former Governor Maggie Hassan. The measure made it through the New Hampshire General Court before losing ground. It seems this year, the legislation actually has a chance to pass into law. Just a few days ago, the bill moved past the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee after a vote of 12 to 8 and will now move forward to the House floor with the entire House of Representatives considering the measure.

Proponents of the measure are asking individuals to contact state representatives to see the bill become law. With a new governor in place, it could be that the measure will have enough support to move through the House and be one step closer to becoming law, needing the signature of the governor to do so.

Concealed Weapons Laws

Criminal attorneys commonly deal with this category of law as individuals face charges for carrying a concealed weapon when essentially the law-abiding citizen is doing nothing wrong. It is important to work with an attorney who knows the gun laws of New Hampshire and can help you in a case of concealed weapon charge or others issues involving firearms. If the law changes, attorneys will have new legal ways of dealing with such charges to assist those in need.

Over the next few weeks, the full House should considered Senate Bill 12 and it will be determined if the measure will become law and open/concealed carry will be meshed into one license for gun owners.

By Kevin Tighe

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How to Beat a DUI in New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 15:57:00 +0000

Arrested for a DUI in New Hampshire?

A DWI arrest in New Hampshire isn’t always a cut and dry scenario. Far too many people accept the penalties of a DWI charge without even knowing their rights or if there may have been grounds to fight their case. Countless New Hampshire residents wrongfully assume that if there was a field sobriety test, blood test, or a Breathalyzer test given, there is no reason to defend themselves or there is no hope of beating the charges. Despite any tests given at the scene or at the time of arrest, everyone deserves to know their rights and to know the possible defense strategies that may help them avoid a DWI conviction.

What to Do When Arrested for DWI

The first thing a person who has been arrested for DWI in New Hampshire should do is contact a criminal defense attorney. Someone who has worked as a drunk driving lawyer in the state is the best option if you are facing charges. A drunk driving charge can have a serious impact on every aspect of your life. A conviction can mean the loss of a driver’s license, high fines, mandatory enrollment in an alcohol program, the installation of an interlock ignition, and even jail time. There is simply too much at stake to not seek help from a drunk driving lawyer who will fight to have the charges reduced or even dismissed.

The assistance of a DWI attorney can help you get the charges reduced to a “wet reckless” charge. This is essentially a form of reckless driving involving alcohol. This type of reduction in charges can be negotiated if the blood alcohol level was borderline, there was no accident, or if there is no prior record of drunk driving.

Chances of Getting My Charges Dropped

As for the chances of getting a charge dismissed, a DWI lawyer can increase that chance depending on the type of test given and evidence gathered. The first thing a drunk driving attorney can challenge is the legality of the stop that led to a DWI charge. A search may have also been illegal, rendering evidence against you as inadmissible.

A blood alcohol test can be challenged based on the procedure itself. The analysis or the time period that elapsed may render the results inconclusive or possibly inaccurate. When it comes to results of a Breathalyzer test, there is statistical evidence that points to inaccuracies. Improper administration and machine error can be much more common that people may realize. Whoever administers the breath test must also be licensed to operate the machine. If that license is non-existent or expired, the results can’t be used against you.

Field Sobriety Test

The most subjective test often used against people is the field sobriety test. A skilled drunk driving attorney can successfully challenge an officer’s conclusion regarding the results of any field sobriety test. This kind of test is not absolute and there are a wide range of factors that can result in a dismissal of the results of a field sobriety test. Some of the factors that often play a role in the testing and have resulted in dismissal of a DWI charge are: the weather (snow, ice, high winds), medical conditions or the effects of medication, exhaustion, disability, injures that prevent certain movements, weight, age, and emotional distress at the time the test is given.

No one is automatically guilty of a DWI in New Hampshire. Everyone, whether they are pulled over or involved in an accident, has legal rights of which they should be made aware. Fighting a DWI charge may not be easy, but winning or having a charge dismissed is worth it for your finances, your reputation, and possibly your freedom. If you have been arrested, let an experienced and aggressive DWI attorney hear the details of the case and see if that lawyer can help you get a fair and just outcome.

By Kevin Tighe

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Student Social Media Laws in New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 01:35:00 +0000

Student Social Media Laws in New Hampshire

Social media sites are extremely popular with today’s younger generation. From Instagram and Snapchat to Facebook, the options are endless for sharing information about yourself with others. Students can easily log on to such sites and interact with friends. It is not recommended that a child be able to access such accounts during school hours and many schools have banned such sites from their wireless networks. However, children do have the option to use personal devices to access accounts.

Do I Need To Give My Teacher My Password?

A recent change was made in the law of New Hampshire involving social media and students. Schools located in the state can no longer require students to provide passwords to social media accounts. It’s a privacy rights law that protects NH students. Schools also cannot ask for passwords to gain access to accounts. Schools are also unable to punish any student who does not provide their login information. This gives a sense of privacy to students who do not want to share such information with teachers or other faculty members.

Student Privacy Rights & Laws in NH

If your child is approached by a teacher or faculty member and asked for such information they now have the right to say no. Talk to your child about this new law and make sure they know their rights. If you find that your child has been approached and asked for their password, you have the option to take legal action. To do so, you would need to consult with an attorney. An experienced attorney will be knowledgeable of this new law change and how you may be affected.

Once you speak to an attorney, you will have a better idea as to if you have a legal right to file suit. You may find that your attorney can resolve the issue within the confines of the school or you may have to push further and press charges in the matter. Exhaust all of your options to ensure that the school is following legal protocol and your child’s social media account is private.

By Kevin Tighe

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Gross Lewdness Laws in New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 03:40:00 +0000

What is Gross Lewdness?

There are many laws in place to protect children from sexual predators across the United States. In New Hampshire, changes have been made to acts of lewdness legislation to ensure individuals face stiff penalties for exposing themselves in front of children. An individual who exposes themselves in front of a child that is under the age of 16 will be subject to Class B Felony charges. The same can be applied to an individual who performs an act of lewdness in front of a child 16 years of age or younger. With the Class B felony charge, an individual will face as much as 7 years in prison as well as a fine of $2,000.

Charged With Gross Lewdness?

If you have been accused and charged with gross lewdness on a child, contact a local criminal defense attorney in New Hampshire. Consult with an attorney who has knowledge of the changes in law to ensure you are not being falsely accused. Talk to your child and use any information you have to be able to press charges and have an attorney help pursue the matter.

Depending on the severity of the charges exposure or act of lewdness, an attorney will be able to advise you on your rights and what if any the penalties you may be facing.

Penalties for Gross Lewdness in NH

New Hampshire lawmakers have stiff penalties in place to keep those who conduct such acts from doing so again after facing such charges and being found guilty. An experienced defense attorney can help ensure that you receive a fair and just trial. If you have been arrested and charged with the act of gross lewdness on a minor, then contact a criminal lawyer today to begin working on your case right away.

By Kevin Tighe

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Using Uber This Fourth of July in New Hampshire?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 13:59:00 +0000

Uber is a transportation service similar to taxi services, however uber uses an app on your smart phone. Tap a button, get a ride. Created to improve access to transportation, and make streets safer. Uber claims it is safe or is it?

What if background checks aren't enough? That is exactly what some people in New Hampshire and other parts of the country are talking about right now. According to reports, an Uber driver that had passed the background check is accused of murdering six people in one night of using the Uber service. Uber has background checks in place for those who want to work for them, but some say it may not be enough. So how can you protect yourself from personal injury from an Uber driver?

Understanding How It Works

Uber is an app that connects you and the driver via your GPS system on your smartphone. It tells you the information about the driver such as a photo, rating by other Uber users, and their license plate number. You can read comments/rating from other riders who have used this particular driver before so you have an idea of what you're getting into. If you have been out drinking this service is a great way to avoid a New Hampshire DUI.

What can be done

The New Hampshire area is working to make sure that you are safe during your ride in any Uber vehicle. There are already background checks and driving checks in place before a driver is hired. Other methods that are being considered include random alcohol and drug checks, requiring Uber to have a physical place of business, and city licensing.

What can you do?

Utilize your app and make sure that the driver and car you are getting into are the ones that show up on the app. Don't be afraid to verify the identity. Make sure that you are waiting in a safe place for your driver to show up. This can be in a home, building, or shop until the app alerts you that your driver has arrived. There's no need to put yourself into a sticky situation waiting on your New Hampshire Uber driver. Also be sure you stay in contact with friends or family during the trip. This will help you to know that someone has an idea of who you're with and where you're headed. Also be sure to utilize the app's information about the driver. Take the ratings seriously and into consideration as you pick a car.

Getting Injured

Unfortunately, even with checks in place, there can be personal injury from an Uber driver. If that happens it is important that you contact an injury law firm right away. They can take a look at your case and the injury lawyer in New Hampshire can help you to get compensation and get justice. Whether you are in a car accident or if there's an attack on your person, you can make sure that no one has to go through that again. Uber is a great service and can be very beneficial to the New Hampshire citizens. This is if the proper regulations are in place and you keep these safety tips in mind.

By Kevin Tighe

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Safe Trick or Treating this Halloween in New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 23 Oct 2015 00:01:00 +0000

Halloween Safety Tips for New Hampshire

Halloween in New Hampshire is right around the corner and falls on a Friday this year. Trick or Treat times varies statewide. Over the years, the once child-centric holiday has morphed into an adult holiday known as the Halloween costume party. Bars and private homeowners typically host costume parties and provide free drinks or bar drink specials. Because of this growth amongst adults, police have noted that Halloween joins the ranks of Fourth of July and the Super Bowl when it comes to DUI arrests.
While not drinking and driving is the ideal way to ward off a DUI arrest, those that do drink too much often find themselves watching the police car lights flash in their rear view mirror. If you do find yourself in this situation, there are basic legal rights which you should be aware and behaviors that may help your case rather than hurt it.

Dealing with a Police Encounter

First and foremost, always project a cooperative and polite manner toward the officer. While you may be frustrated, scared, or even angry that you have been pulled over, your tone and demeanor will impact how the situation unfolds. Maintain a respectful tone and comply with the legal requests given to you. This entails handing over your license, registration, and insurance information. Choose words carefully and say as little as possible.

Aside from your words, your actions may be used against you. Actions that are often used against someone facing a DUI charge typically relate to field sobriety tests. These tests are difficult to pass when completely sober and are equally difficult under duress. Plus, there is no exact science behind them and the results or interpretations are purely subjective. Outside factors, such as health issues, emotional stress, and weather, can all play a role in how results are judged. Because they are not scientific, you have the legal right to decline to take one. However, in New Hampshire, if you refuse field sobriety tests, as well as breath or blood tests, this refusal can be used against you at trial whereas in Massachusetts this is not the case. Also, in New Hampshire, refusal of breath or blood tests may lead to loss of operating privileges through DMV. This will be in addition to anything the court may impose if you are found guilty. On the flip side, if you refuse these tests it makes it more difficult for the state to prove the case against you. There is no one right answer here. You know yourself better than anybody. So if you find yourself in this situation make the best decision you can at the time and hope that it’s the right one.

Fighting Your Charges

A DUI charge is never a slam dunk for the police. Factors related to the exact nature of the stop, the interaction with the officer and the circumstances at the time of the stop can impact your case. Everything can be challenged, including blood and breath test results. While an attorney may not be able to prevent you from being pulled over, a skilled and experienced DUI attorney can minimize the chances of a conviction. A DUI arrest can cost you your license, your job, your family, and leave you with high fines and possible jail time. A DUI attorney can assess you situation and possibly decrease the impact on your life, if not get the charge dismissed altogether.

By
Kevin Tighe

Hand Held Electronic Device Laws for New Hampshire

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Jun 2015 15:45:00 +0000

A reliance on technology and cell phones has led to

an increase in the number of traffic accidents related to distracted driving due to cell phone use. Current estimates from the National Safety Council state that roughly 26 percent of accidents are due in part to the use of hand held electronic devices. Use of a cell phone while driving has been shown to cause drivers to take their eyes off the road and not be able to pay attention to surroundings, otherwise known as distracted driving. These facts and causes of concern for safety on New Hampshire roadways has led to legislation regarding the use of hand held electronic devices while driving.

Effective July 1st 2015

Passed by the governor and effective July 1, 2015, there is a state-wide ban on the use of hand held electronic devices while driving in New Hampshire. While hands-free systems are a legal option for adults, any minor driver is prohibited from any and all cell phone use while driving. There is already a ban on texting and driving in New Hampshire. This is also the law in 43 states and the District of Columbia. The ban on any use of hand held electronic devices will add New Hampshire to the list of 12 states and the District of Columbia who already have such a ban in place. As with any law, there are opponents who see the ban as an intrusion on rights and personal liberties. Despite the opposition, the law means police can conduct a traffic stop and issue a citation if a person is observed driving and using a hand held device.
The state has taken action to spread the word and educate the public about the ban. A marketing campaign has been initiated. Part of that marketing plan includes advertising a catch phrase—Hands Free, a Better Way to Be.

What Does The New Hands Free Law Entail?

The law is specific as to what is considered ‘use of a hand held device’. It states the reading, composing, viewing, or posting of an electronic message while driving is considered an illegal action. Also, receiving or conducting conversations via a hand held device is an infraction of the law. Residents should be aware that imputing information into a GPS system or similar system is considered use of a hand held device. The ‘use’ definition refers to a vehicle in motion and also when a driver is stopped in traffic.

The criminal consequences of being cited for breaking the new law include fines and possible license suspension in cases involving minor drivers. A first offense will lead to a $100 fine. A second offense will lead to a fine of $250 and fines can reach $500.

What to Do if Accused & Cited For Hands Free Violation

As with any traffic citation and fine, a New Hampshire criminal defense attorney can work to investigate the legality of a traffic stop and citation. Being pulled over can oftentimes be the result of a misunderstanding or wrongful assumption by authorities. There can easily be incidents of a driver being spotted with something in hand and mistakenly accused of violating the hand held device ban. The possibility of misinterpretations and misunderstandings can be countless as police are on the look-out for offenders. Despite the marketing campaign, there may also be residents who are unaware of the law and suffer the consequences. Regardless of the situation or whether a person is guilty or wrongfully accused, that citizen has rights and protections under the law. A skilled and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer in New Hampshire can ensure every citizen has a chance to explain the situation and can then go forward with a defense plan that minimizes the impact of a citation for violating the hand held device ban.

By Kevin Tighe

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What a DWI Means to a New Hampshire Commercial Truck Driver

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 May 2015 03:10:00 +0000

A DWI is no laughing matter for anyone. Getting pulled over and placed under arrest for suspicion of DWI can be a very scary event. But if you are a CDL holder this fear will probably be amplified. Although any driver on the road that is faced with DWI charges will have substantial fees and penalties, someone who holds a CDL will be put under more scrutiny.

The state of New Hampshire takes DWI’s by CDL holders seriously. In fact, if a commercial truck driver gets a DWI and they are convicted, a mandatory one year suspension of their CDL will occur. If this wasn’t enough, once a truck driver gets a DWI it can never be taken off their record. This can have a serious effect on ones employment because often trucking companies won’t hire DWI offenders even if the conviction was 10 years ago.

There is less tolerance for CDL drivers who are suspected of DWI

While normal drivers will be arrested if they have an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or greater, a CDL holder can go to jail for much less. A commercial truck driver who has an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or more is considered too drunk to drive. This lower tolerance level has resulted in many truck drivers being convicted of DWI.

Even if the CDL holder isn’t driving a commercial truck during their traffic stop they still are faced with this harsh law. This means that even while not at work commercial truck drivers have to be very careful how much alcohol they drink.

This lower level means that truck drivers have to be particularly careful when getting behind the wheel even after just one drink. Many CDL holders have even lost their livelihood by having just one DWI.

A second offense means a lifetime ban

Commercial truck drivers who get convicted of a second DWI offense will have their CDL permanently stripped from them. Without a CDL many second time offenders will never be able to step foot in a commercial truck again thus ending their carrier.

This can have life changing impacts on the lives of second time offenders causing them financial hardship. In fact many end up losing their homes and personal vehicles due to the loss of employment.

Get help fast if you are faced with DWI

The most important thing you can do after you have been arrested for DWI in the state of New Hampshire is to seek professional legal advice. Hire a good local DUI lawyer that specializes in DWI related cases for CDL drivers because you are going to need all the help you can get with your DWI case.

By Kevin Tighe

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St. Paddy’s Day Celebrations in New Hampshire 2015 - Avoid DUI!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 13 Mar 2015 21:19:00 +0000

The time is nearly upon us when we celebrate the annual Irish holiday - St. Paddy’s Day. Here in New Hampshire, the St. Paddy’s Day parade is one of the largest social events on the calendar with up to 70,000 people lining the streets year in, year out.

While the St. Paddy’s Day parade incorporates a range of traditional Irish forms of entertainment like pipe bands or Irish dancing, one of the major draws is of course the Irish pubs!

It’s easy to get caught up in the festivities and make a daring decision to drive while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol. All too often, DUI lawyers see cases where your average everyday American has been charged with a DUI or DWI during the celebrations. When sober, it’s all too easy for people to recognize the dangers drunk driving can have, not only to others but to themselves too. Hindsight is a wonderful thing!
We want to see everyone enjoying St. Paddy’s Day responsibly, which is why we put together a few recommendations, so you can enjoy this event to the fullest extent!

•    If you’re going out in a group and of course if someone’s willing to, designate a driver for the ride home.
•    Arrange for a cab to pick you up (save a few numbers into your phone before going out).
•    Drink responsibly and know your limits! Make sure to take it slow and eat properly prior to hitting the bottle.
•    Arrange a ride in advance via friends or family.

If you’re going to be drinking at all, it’s probably best not to take a car, just in case you do give in to temptation and drive home. Without transport, it takes the decision out of your hands and forces you to use one of the alternate methods above. We personally don’t condone drunk driving, but if the worst case scenario does happen, then it’s best to be prepared.

•    Have all the correct documentation on hand and be courteous at all times.
•    Don’t give the police any reason to pull you over. By this we mean, no busted lights of the car or anything not working properly that would lead an officer to pull you over.
•    Being a major event, expect that the police will be out in full force. Take the back roads home and avoid any unnecessary police checkpoints.
•    Don’t take any of the sobriety tests offered by the police, you are not legally obliged to do so! The field tests used by officers are notoriously inaccurate and even if your results show that you’re under the legal limit, you can still be charged with a DWI.

As always, if you run into any difficulties, it’s always best to contact us before giving the police any information relating to your DUI or DWI. They only need your basic information, for anything else you have the right to a DUI attorney being present. Have a great St Patrick’s Day, enjoy yourselves and needless to say, be safe! Follow the above information and hopefully you won’t need the ‘luck of the Irish’!

Kevin M. Tighe

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Will New Hampshire Lower The Blood Alcohol Limit to.05?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 17:09:00 +0000

As you may or may not know the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) is putting pressure on drinking and driving by lowering the blood alcohol limit. As of right New Hampshire as well as 49 other states have a legal limit of .08. The NTSB voted earlier this year on lowering that tolerance by nearly 40% to.05. The board states this new law will lower the drunken driving related fatalities dramatically.

Many countries have implemented the .05 legal alcohol limit. After Europe lowered their limits to .05 they have seen a drop in traffic deaths contributed to drunken driving by more than half within 10 years since the new legal limit was adopted.

An alcohol concentration threshold of .05 will likely be meet strong resistance from states. If the law passes the proposed .05 legal limit it will mean people will need to take a close look and monitor their alcohol content when out on the town.

So you may have to think strongly about having that 2nd glass of wine with dinner. Blood alcohol and breath tests vary for different people.

The level can be affected by many things:

• Fluid Ounces Consumed
• (Beer 12 Oz. Wine Glass - 4 Oz. 1 Shot -1.5 Oz.)
• Your Weight (Lbs.)
• Alcohol Percentage In Beverage (Beer - 4-4.5% Wine -15-20% 1 Shot -30-50%)
• Hours Consuming Drink

So what’s this mean?

Well a .05 limit might be about one drink for a woman weighing less than 120 pounds and approximately two drinks for a 160-pound man.

Blood alcohol content (BAC) or blood alcohol concentration is the concentration of alcohol in blood. It is usually measured as mass per volume. For example, a BAC of 0.02% means 0.2% (per mille) or 0.02 grams of alcohol per 100 grams of individual's blood, or 0.2 grams of alcohol per 1000 grams of blood. Use of a BAC Calculator, (Blood Alcohol Calculator)* can give you an idea of what percentage of alcohol is in your blood.

* The Blood Alcohol Calculator is used for entertainment purposes only. Your actual blood alcohol concentration depends on a variety of additional factors, like genetic makeup, personal health, and recent food consumption. These results are rough estimates for an average person only. Do not rely on these results to drive or work.

Here is what you need to know. What is considered a drink?

• A drink is 12 ounces of beer
• 4 ounces glass of wine
• 1 ounce of 80-proof alcohol in most studies

Are Portable Breath Test Machines Accurate?

A problem with the portable breath test devices is that frequently they are not inspected or calibrated by a state official. Maintenance logs are not usually kept on these machines (at least we haven't seen any in the past 9 years). The paperwork is frequently lost by departments. Also, the portable breath test machines have a tendency of measuring the alcohol that may be in your mouth. Most standard police training books instruct officers to wait 20 minutes before they have someone take a preliminary/portable breath test – given that the machine can be thrown off by a recent sip of booze, mouthwash, and other contaminants. For more information on breath test machines contact a New Hampshire criminal defense attorney who is experienced with breathalyzers.

By

Kevin M. Tighe

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Motorcycle Week Laconia NH 2014 – Events Calendar

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 18:59:00 +0000

For over 90 years, the Laconia Bike Week has served up the biggest motorcycle rally in the United States, and this year is better than ever. From it's beginning 91 years ago to this year, the Laconia Bike Week in New Hampshire has been the hottest spot for all types of motorcycle enthusiasts and bikers to come together and have a good time with their fellow riders. Bikers also enjoy its fun filled events and shows. Keep in mind that the Laconia Bike Week for this year is starting on Father's Day, instead of ending on it as it normally does.

Laconia Bike Week Events

The Laconia Bike Week in New Hampshire is not only a meet up for motorcycle enthusiasts, but it is also host to some of the best bike events in the country. Special events include live concerts, bike shows, shuttle service, American Police Motorcycle Museum, bikini contests and arm wrestling. Find out information about these and other Laconia Bike Week events along with times and schedules at the following link: http://www.laconiamcweek.com/Schedule/

Obeying Motorcycle Laws And Tips On Avoiding DWI in New Hampshire

While you’re attending the 91st annual Laconia Motorcycle Rally in New Hampshire, remember to not only have a good time and make new friends, but to also be safe and obey the motorcycle laws to avoid a drunk driving conviction in NH. With plenty of access to various alcoholic drinks in the beer tents combined with the scorching sun, many bikers will drink. However, with these following tips, you can have a fun, safe day out at the rally without running into legal problems or accidents:

• Limit your alcohol intake. Responsible drinking leads to responsible riding.

• Make sure you complete a New Hampshire motorcycle training course from the DMV. The course doesn't cost that much and is a great way to learn about motorcycle laws and safety.

• Always wear a motorcycle helmet. Although the motorcycle laws in New Hampshire state that a helmet is not required, it is still important that you wear one to prevent serious injury.

• It is required by law that your headlight works properly, and that you wear eye protection unless you have a windshield.

• Always wear bright colors at night; this makes it easier for other vehicles to see you.

• Keep your ID with you at all times and make sure your motorcycle is insured.

• Slow down before approaching an intersection and look in both directions. Most accidents involving motorcycles occur when other vehicles make an unexpected left turn.

•If you are involved in an accident where you are seriously injured, contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney immediately.

Enjoy Bike week. Be safe and sober, otherwise you will be calling me or someone like me to get you out of a mess.

By
Kevin M. Tighe

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